Iraxy

Puerto Rico is part and has been part of the US since the 1800's!

It is a beautiful place to visit and very historic. Helps if you speak some Spanish and don't have a holier than thou or ugly American attitude because they are Americans too(by law at that!) There is crime, but I have been there many times and have NEVER had any problems. The traffic is chaotic and the streets are very narrow in San Juan and small outlying towns. DH complained about the fact that rules of the road are not followed. I thought driving was interesting and never had any problems but then I speak the language. It is a very modern city in many places. Fashionistas everywhere! Pricey. Puerto Ricans are very proud of their heritage. Most speak English. When people say not to wear jewelry, they mean don't flaunt your stuff. Use common sense. You would do that in NY, so why not in San Juan? You would not go into back alleys in Detroit or Chicago either!

So, use your common sense, get a good guide book or a guide, a Spanish/English dictionary, good walking shoes, a nice comfortable bathing suit, and sunblock. Bring money. Lots of it as there are many boutiques, expensive shops, etc. Bring an open mind and a fun attitude and you should be just fine. **Ask about the town in the mountains where they have the pork fests on the weekends. You will have the time of your life!

About the flying cockroaches and lizards and fireants. You are in the tropics for goodness sake! This is what I mean about common sense. If you are somewhere different, adapt. Have you ever been to Houston, Texas? They have all of those there too. Sorry you missed out on a great experience. uj